Lux CEO. “It’s important to understand what the consumer really wants. We know that if they desire energy efficiency over comfort, they’re going to want certain sorts of settings.”

Because phones have become such vital, prominent parts of people lives these days – almost inseparable for many – those devices serve as the dominant platform for setting up the device, building in desired functionality and monitoring performance.

Kono, Hawaiian for “invitation,” gives consumer visual choices, too. The faceplates snap on, are interchangeable and come in a multitude of colors. There’s even a cover that can be painted to match an accompanying wall for a seamless design.

Kono is noted for its ease of installation and setup. It also connects effortlessly with major smart products like Amazon Alexa, Apple Home Kit and Google Assistant.

Through the airSMART IAQ system, the thermostat connects to the HVAC system to help drive efficiency. Armed with sensors, Kono can determine a change in air quality, send a signal through the app and cloud to trigger the HVAC system to turn on its fan.

“Then any air-cleaning device you have in the home … will help clean the air,” he said.

Users can use a feature that uses Energy Star recommended levels and smart tips that shows how temperature changes and air/heat scheduling can save money. The solution also notices when temperature levels are manually changed and asks users whether they want make that change permanent.

“Those sorts of reminders with the app interacting with the person is a great way to reinforce the importance of energy efficiency,” Munin said. “It’s not something that’s going to bring everyone in to buy these things off their contractors right away, but it is clearly an important thing. They can pay for themselves within one year.”